December 30, 1997

Dear Saints Fan,

The '97 season ended with a 25 - 13 loss to playoff bound Kansas City, punctuating Ditka's inaugural campaign with the mark of a team still learning to compete against the best in the NFL. For fans, we have endured yet another season that has us placing our hope in the promise of a New Year and the possibilities that will start to take shape in the off season.

With the benefit of a full season of hands on experience with his players and within the organization, we can anticipate that Ditka will have a clearer picture of what it will take to build a championship team in New Orleans. The question remains whether he can fulfill his promise, especially with the challenge of improving an offense that was at or near the bottom of the league in all meaningful categories.

Ditka claims the offense does not need an overhaul, but simply lacks execution. Of course, he has also stated we need some playmakers, alluding to the lack of production at the skill positions. With the benefit of the draft and free agency, we should be able to acquire a running back, receiver and offensive lineman to bolster the offense. But quarterback remains a question mark entering the off season with Hobert, Shuler and Wuerffel being the only quarterbacks on the roster expected to compete for the starting position.

Therein lies the rub. Shuler had every opportunity to prove himself as an NFL quarterback and failed. Wuerffel has the head, but not the arm to be anything more than a career backup in the league. Hobert has potential, but the risk of placing our hopes in him to carry us all the way is substantial in light of his hot and cold performances in limited action throughout his tenure in the league.

Free agency may provide an opportunity to address the problem. However, unless we can obtain the questionable services of Jim Harbaugh, who may be going elsewhere; or pay a substantial price by way of a first round draft pick for Rob Johnson of the Jaguars, Hobert will remain at the top of the depth chart. We will probably be left with the draft to secure our next quarterback, but will have to successfully complete a blockbuster trade to do so.

Peyton Manning and Ryan Leaf are the only quarterbacks coming out this year that have the potential to start in the NFL. There are no other quarterbacks in the upcoming draft that can help us next season or in years to come.

Manning and Leaf are projected to be the first two players selected in the draft, meaning we will have to trade up from our seven spot to at least the second position to secure one of them. In addition to giving up draft picks, a trade of this magnitude will require an open check book from Tom Benson who would have to be prepared to pay an eight to ten million dollar signing bonus for a top quarterback. The deal may also involve giving up one or more players. But the deal has to be done if we are to have any chance of building a championship team as opposed to merely being competitive.

There is no question that even the best quarterback needs a supporting cast. But quarterbacks are the rarest commodities in the NFL and championship teams are built around that position.

Some will argue that no quarterback can succeed as a Saint given the shortages at most of our offensive positions. We definitely need to upgrade the line, find a go-to running back and a game-breaking receiver. But those needs can be filled with any number of players who enter the draft year after year as well as through free agency. Quarterbacks like Manning and Leaf are rarities, as are the chances to draft them. We need to do whatever it takes to move up to draft one of these players in the upcoming draft while the opportunity is present to secure a franchise quarterback. We may not have that chance again in the foreseeable future.

If the Saints make the deal to secure the services of Manning or Leaf, the organization will have made the strongest statement possible that it intends to give the fans years of play-off caliber football and a legitimate shot to have a Super Bowl champion in New Orleans. On the other hand, if we stand pat at draft time, selecting a running back or wide receiver, we can expect nothing but improvement over last year. I think we deserve more.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Herman Hupfeld provided us with one of the most memorable lyrics in film history when he penned “As Time Goes By…” for the movie Casablanca. Though Tom Benson could not contain himself on the sideline when he rewarded Ditka with a peck on the cheek in the course of our 27 – 10 victory over the Cardinals, we should not forget Hupfeld’s advice.

                                   You must remember this
                                   A kiss is still a kiss, a sigh is just a sigh
                                   The fundamental things apply
                                   As time goes by…

For the first time in what seems forever, the situation on the field did not go from bad to worse. The first half ended with the Cardinals ahead 10 – 3 and Hobert two for nine passing for only nine yards. In the second half, Hobert was twelve for fifteen, accounting for 243 yards and three touchdowns as we rallied for 24 unanswered points to close out our ’97 home stand with a win.

Prior to signing Hobert in late November, the offense was killing us. “Drives”, if you could call them such, were routinely ended by punts or turnovers. But now we have a young quarterback with enough upside potential to let us move forward with the rebuilding process in the off season.

While statistics seldom paint the entire picture, Hobert has steadily improved over his three starts for us. His quarterback rating yesterday was 118.8, leaving him with a composite 72.4 as a Saint.
He has shown the intangibles of toughness and leadership that statistics do not measure. While the jury is out on his ability to be our quarterback of the future, he has made a compelling opening statement that has us willing to believe he will succeed.

It is still too early, however, to be assured that the quarterback position has been adequately filled. Before coming to the Saints Hobert played in only twelve games in two years at Oakland, starting only five. This year at Buffalo he saw action in only two games with no starts. Considering the extraordinary lack of production from Shuler, Wuerffel and Nussmeier the team would be taking an extreme gamble to plan for the future with only Hobert and any two of the remaining three quarterbacks as his backup. Whether on account of injury or lack of performance, Ditka has to have a reliable quarterback in the bullpen if Hobert cannot answer the call.

While the seas have calmed somewhat, the waters remain murky as we look to the offseason. Jim Harbaugh’s name has surfaced as a possible roster addition. There will also be other veteran quarterbacks available between now and the initial February deadline for player transactions that could enter the mix.

Unless we jockey for position to draft Manning or Leaf, my guess is that Ditka will sign a veteran free agent to compete with Hobert for the starting job. While Nussmeier looks to be the odd man out at present, only three quarterbacks will be on the active roster to start the ’98 season. With Hobert, a yet to be signed veteran, Shuler and Wuerffel expected to be competing for a job, it will be interesting to see who emerges as the number three guy. Can Shuler ever learn to use his athletic ability? Can Wuerffel overcome his lack of athletic ability? Hopefully that debate will only impact the decision on the guy who will hold the clipboard rather than be relied upon throughout the season to put points on the board.

We face the Chiefs in Kansas City to close out the season this Sunday. It will be our final opportunity to measure the progress Ditka has made with the team this year. It is one thing to come back against a struggling team like the Cardinals. The Chiefs, on the other hand, will let us know just how far we have to go to enter the top echelon of the league.

Regardless of the emotions that have defined Ditka’s first year with the Saints, we have to remember that “The fundamental things apply” as we look to the future. It appears we will be able to look back on the year satisfied that the fundamentals Ditka stressed throughout, laced with the attitude of the players he is attempting to assemble, will bode well for the future.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

High on the wall in the south end zone of the Super Dome hangs a lone banner commemorating our first and only Division championship. The original gold background has yellowed somewhat. It lists a bit to one side, having the look of a piece of memorabilia found in an attic trunk more than a vivid testimonial to the organization it represents. And like the team that played before it Sunday, it needs some attention to restore its former luster.

Sunday’s 34 – 27 loss to the Rams reminded us that we are in the middle of a restoration project. The defense and special team play that had been the least of our worries over past weeks significantly contributed to the Rams scoring 21 points in the fourth quarter to overcome our 14 point lead. It was one of those games with which the fans have become all too familiar as defeat was snatched from the jaws of victory.

Going into the season, the consensus was that we needed to improve our ability to run the ball on offense and stop the run defensively.  With the benefit of hindsight, it is plainly obvious that our needs on the offensive side of the ball continue.

None of our backs have emerged as a true threat. We have seen four different starters at quarterback. Our receivers have been average and the line regressed significantly compared to its performance over previous years. Unfortunately, it is difficult to identify our major positional needs on offense due to the extent of ineptitude exhibited at every position throughout most of the season.  Even Willie Roaf’s performance fell to uncharacteristically low levels during the year.

Fortunately, the defense has shown improvement. Tubbs answered the call at middle linebacker turning in pro bowl numbers this year. The defensive line came together as a solid unit as did the secondary.  If Tubbs and Joe Johnson can be convinced to stay with the team, we may be a cornerback away from fielding a dominant defense in ’98.

The debate surrounding the ’98 draft will center on the identification of our greatest offensive need and the player chosen to fill it. The team would do well to select the best available athlete at any offensive position when it is our turn to choose. But more than likely we will draft what the team hopes will be our “go to” running back.

The ’97 campaign will close against the improving Cardinals next week in the Dome followed by the season finale on the road against a strong Kansas City team. At this juncture, 5 – 11 seems a lot more probable than 7 – 9.  If we can win one of the next two, Ditka will have done as well as he, or any other coach would have been expected given the state of the team he inherited.

All that is left to do as his first season with the Saints winds down is for Ditka to get the best read possible on his players to assess our needs in the upcoming draft and free agent market.

Hopefully, with the proper attention, the banner and the team will shine next year.

Until Next Time,

The Editor
 

Dear Saints Fan,

The ’97 season rumbles onward with as many twists and turns as the most outrageous carnival ride. The latest thrill was Ditka’s sulking threat to quit after the Falcon loss last week only to be followed by his firm promise to fulfill his contract the day after. The media and fans had their say, debating whether Ditka should stay or go. But as it turned out, the only opinion that really mattered was that of the players.

While Ditka’s post-Falcon comments remain subject to debate among the press and fans, the players were apparently willing to forgive and forget as evidenced by a gutsy 16 – 13 victory over the Panthers.  For now, the bitterness and uncertainty that shaded Saints’ talk last week has given way to optimism, including the possibility of an 8 – 8 season.

At this point in time we can look forward to shedding last year’s designation as one of the league’s worst teams while competing for a second place finish in the NFC West. We have the opportunity to salvage the season as an organization on the rise if the team continues to show solid effort over the remaining three games. As much as we would have enjoyed a quick start to the season, a strong finish will render Ditka’s first year a success.

Our chances for establishing a foundation for the future will be determined in large part by our most recent quarterback, Billy Joe Hobert. After spending less than two weeks on the roster, he earned the start against Carolina and showed the combination of arm strength, mobility, accuracy and decision making that none of our other quarterbacks demonstrated thus far. He also possesses the type of personality required to play the position for Ditka.

Hobert may be the team leader we have been missing since the days of Mills, Jackson and Hebert. Without question, the offensive line responded to his presence opening holes for the running backs and not giving up a sack. Ditka has said that this is the quietest group of players he has ever been around. Hobert will change that atmosphere and more importantly, appears to be the type of player who will stand up to Ditka for himself and the team.

As much as Ditka has shielded his quarterbacks from being responsible for the worst offense in the league, Hobert’s performance Sunday revealed otherwise. If Hobert can continue to lead the offense as he did against the Panthers, we will finally be able to get a true read on our needs in the draft, free agency and for those who question him, our offensive coordinator. In the process, we could exceed the preseason expectations of the Vegas wise guys who put our win total at six.

As fans, we have weathered our first exposure to Ditka’s multiple personalities. He has caused us to experience a wide range of emotions from anger to elation, but always in response to his team’s performance on the field. The roller coaster that has defined the season may test our nerve, but if Ditka can continue to assemble the players who will play the game his way, we will be glad we took the ride.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

If current events in the Saints’ organization resembled global news, Iran would be overrunning our troops, the stock market would have crashed and our President would be tendering his resignation to avoid impeachment. Fortunately, this is the world of sports and not the world at large.

All the same, Saints’ Fans were dealt a serious blow following a
20 - 3 loss to the Falcons. The very foundation of the organization
was shaken violently when Ditka admitted in his post game interview
“I don’t have it any more,” indicating further that he will consider
resigning at the end of the season.

Now we are left to ponder the possibility of another coaching change while riding out what may be back-to-back lame duck seasons. Although Ditka conceded he would not quit now, the impact of his admissions cannot be lost on his players, the organization or the fans questioning what will happen next.

The search for a spin on Ditka’s comments came soon after they were made. Some are saying his actual words do not reflect his true intentions. Others want him to go now. In any event, the damage has been done.

In the wake of Ditka’s concessions, a few players and coaches made their best attempt at damage control. Yaralian said, “He’s just not used to losing.” Guiliford offered that “I know he ain’t going to jump ship.” Nussmeier seemed to blame the players when he noted “…we’re not making plays for him.” But Wayne Martin concluded, “I have my own job to do.” Joe Johnson went a step further claiming “maybe he has to move on.”

By and large, Ditka’s players could not care less about his hurt feelings. In fact, the coach’s latest retrospective followed a report published last week quoting a player source that “He’s ignorant. He’s egotistical. Quite literally, he’s not a human being.” Some believe the players have lost confidence in their coach. Certainly Ditka’s statement that “For the first time in my life, I can say that it (the game) didn’t mean anything” supports that theory.

Ditka’s volatile nature, which cost him his job in Chicago despite his success there, is backfiring once again. The half-time incident in San Francisco with Eric Allen and the Clarence Jones confrontation the Monday following the Seahawk victory resulted in Ditka and the players involved having to be restrained from physically assaulting one another. The sideline bet that his defense would give up a key completion when the game was still on the line in Oakland was a slap in the face of the defense that has been carrying the team. Those are but a few of the episodes defining a man who admitted, “Maybe the game has passed me by.”

While acknowledging that one of the difficult aspects of his decision to resign would be the loss of work for his assistant coaches, even bigger heads could roll if Ditka cleans out his desk.

Benson conceded to appointing Kuharich as his G.M. only after being refused the opportunity to hire Bill Polian. Kuharich ended up with the job surrounded by the fanfare that he was able to persuade Ditka to come out of retirement while convincing Benson that Ditka could guide the team to new heights. I suspect that if Ditka quits, Kuharich will be the next to go. After all, if it turns out that Ditka is in over his head, Kuharich was wrong in selling the notion to Benson that he was the best coach for the job. Benson should not take long to conclude that his responsibility as the owner requires that he make all of the changes necessary to avoid the same mistakes from being repeated.

Looking into the crystal ball, things could become even more unsettled before the Saints are on the right track. Benson will eventually have to leave the team to his heirs or sell it while he is able. With the new television contract on the horizon, the value of the team will be higher than ever before. New owners? New town? Who knows other than everything starts at the top. Which is probably where will be looking again this off-season as it becomes once again incumbent on Benson to get his house in order.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saint's Fan,

In the course of back to back victories over opponents touting some of the best offensive firepower in the league, the Saints are finally establishing a foundation for the future as Ditka attempts to bring us to the next level and beyond.

We stuffed the Seahawks 20 - 17, needing a few seconds of overtime to seal the victory. The win came in spite of five turnovers and an offensive output of only 72 yards rushing and 101 passing. It came in spite of another quarterback change in the waning moments of the game with the outcome still on the line. It came in spite of Ditka's inability to trust his offense to advance the ball any further than the Seahawk twenty-yard line after Tubb's interception of Moon's first pass in overtime. It came in spite of Doug Brien being ordered onto the field to kick the game winning field goal from 38 yards without the benefit of warming up. It came because we have a defense and special teams that have been playing at a championship level and are no longer concerned with pointing fingers at the offense.

Our victory over the Seahawks left us 4 – 7 on the season, insuring a better record than last year's 3 - 13 mark. But more importantly, it revealed that the team is responding positively to Ditka's preseason promise that "we will find a way, or make a way."

We are in the final stretch of the season. For some teams it is time to take it up a notch to insure reaching the playoffs. For us, these games will more likely dictate the direction of the draft and free agent signings although we are not mathematically eliminated from post-season play.

Whatever the outcome Sunday, this is a year that involves not only rebuilding but also redirecting a team that still needs more talent and the belief that it can win. In addition to acquiring new players, Ditka is hoping to keep most of the members of his current roster. But Ditka realizes that some will be playing to stay while others will certainly test the free agent market.

With Tubbs and Johnson unsigned, Ditka is facing another difference between now and when he last coached. The degree of player loyalty to him and his method of building a championship team will be tested soon after the final gun sounds on the season. Reading between the lines, if key players just coming into their own think the future is brighter elsewhere, then Ditka could end up dead in the water.

In today's landscape of free agency, the great players try to go where they have the best chance for a Super Bowl. The good players try to enhance their chances to win. The journeymen bounce from team to team trying to get playing time. But money overrides any of the above factors as a player weighs his options. This is where Tom Benson must come through, since signing bonuses are the coin of the realm for players deciding where to take their talent.

Compounding matters is the pending television contract which is anticipated to increase the cap to about $50 million per team. For most businesses, an increase in cash flow is a true asset. But in the NFL, and for the Saints in particular, managing the cap will be all the more challenging since cap consultant Terry O'Neil will be leaving the organization at the end of the year.

We are in the process of winding down the first and most tumultuous year for any program in transition. Whether we can enter the offseason with optimism for the future will be based on how we finish. We may be foolish to expect a miracle with the offense, but the defense could wind up as the keystone for the future. Not only in terms of wins, but also with the credibility it imparts to Ditka's ability to deliver a champion.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

When Ditka came out of retirement to coach the Saints, it was with the hope that he would redefine our designation as one of the worst franchises in the league. In the course of a 13 – 10 victory at Oakland yesterday, Ditka may have redefined himself as a coach who motivates from the lunatic fringe rather than his heartfelt passion to succeed.

Case in point. The coach made no secret of his intentions to pull Shuler and insert Nussmeier if the situation warranted the change. In the middle of the third quarter, Ditka attempted to call Shuler to the sideline but Shuler did not respond. An outraged Ditka finally got Shuler’s attention, yanking him out of the game while the play clock was ticking to insert a surprised Doug Nussmeier.

Nussmeier entered the huddle without the benefit of warming up, trying to shake off a season long case of “clipboard claw.”  Meanwhile Ditka was doing his best to convince Shuler that “Heath, come over here” means just that. Nussmeier was able to courageously form his gnarled hands into a “T”, stopping the clock, allowing Shuler to re-enter the game with his newfound identity. “I am Heath, and I’m good enough, smart enough and from this point forward will sho’ enough get this team into the endzone.”  In the meantime, offensive coordinator Danny Abramowicz was left in the booth to wonder what play to call to keep the chains moving.

The fans got what we expected from Ditka yesterday, and then some. He was animated, agitated and even drew a flag for unsportsmanlike conduct. He paced the sidelines like a man possessed, barking at his charges while chomping his gum. He capped his performance paying off a bet on the sidelines to Zavan Yaralian after Sammy Knight intercepted Jeff George to seal the victory.

This was the Mike Ditka we had envisioned-sort of. A coach who by the strength of his presence can sometimes motivate a roster of untested players to overachieve. But on the other hand, we have a guy willing to do comedy routines on Saturday Night Live letting a national television audience know that “we suck”, while nearly losing his mind in the course of a Sunday afternoon that counts in the standings.

Has Ditka finally crossed the line distinguishing charisma from the coaching caricature some believe he has become? Joe Theismann seems to think so. In the course of his weekly appearance on the “Babe Show”, Theismann’s outrage was clear. Claiming that Ditka has made a “mockery” of his team, his coaches and the NFL, Theismann’s diatribe ended only because he ran out of time rather than lack of words to express his disdain for Ditka’s antics.

Other than the fine the league may impose for exchanging cash on the sidelines, Ditka can assert he engaged in no wrongdoing yesterday. As fans, his claim of innocence may be accepted since it followed a win. But would Ditka’s behavior have been forgivable had we lost?

The question remains as to whether we have a coach who can transform the Saints into Super Bowl champions or simply one capable of drawing national attention to a team that would be otherwise ignored. Obviously, we want the championship. To get it, Ditka will have to operate within the framework of a league that has changed dramatically since his days with the Bears. Ditka will have to change with the times, or force the times to change. He stated in his post-game interview that “I can’t hold my emotions anymore, gang.”  Katie, bar the door!

If Ditka wants to be taken seriously, especially by an organization apparently willing to let him control the future of the team, he will have to prove the method of his madness. But in the meantime, let ‘er rip Mike. If the coaching gig does not work out, you can always increase your television time hawking cars instead of Super Bowl dreams. After all, most of the sports world is now convinced “We’re CAH-RAAZZY over here!”

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Sunday morning. We prepare for game day in the usual fashion, some traveling to the Dome, others taking their favorite place in front of the television at home or in a sports bar. But this week arriving at our assigned viewing area resembled a funeral procession more than a pep rally. It was not a day when the air was filled with battle cries from the home crowd. Rather, Saints Fans mostly avoided eye contact with those wondering why we even bother to watch.

The team took another beating, this time a 23 - 0 shut out at the hands of the 49ers. This followed last week's 13 – 0 blanking by the Panthers after which Ditka proclaimed we had hit rock bottom. Where does that leave us now?

As fans we are below rock bottom. Preseason anticipation has since transformed to anger and now, possibly apathy entering an open week when we will be left to find something else to do Sunday afternoon.

The frustration of the season lies not so much in the record but in the manner we continue to lose. We have a defense that can keep us in the game. Yet questions raised in training camp about the offense remain unanswered.

Our old pal T.J. Simers caused an uproar among Saints' faithful last August when he wrote "After watching the team's collection of quarterbacks at work, here's a question still in need of an answer: 'How can you tell when a Saints quarterback is trying to throw the ball away?' " Well…?

No one seems to know why we are performing at a record setting level of ineptitude on offense. Of course the fact all three of our quarterbacks saw action in the ninth game of the season tells us something. But how did we get to that point? What went wrong in the offseason that resulted in the bottom falling out of the offense?

One of the more puzzling anomalies of the '97 season is how the same people who were largely responsible for building a decent defense could fail so miserably putting an offense together. Kuharich, player personnel, Ditka and the defensive coaches somehow fashioned a defense that is at the top of the league. Using somewhat of a scientific method to evaluate the night and day differences between the offense and defense, when keeping all of the "constants" in place the only area that can be isolated to account for our offensive ineptitude is the offensive coaching staff and the players.

We are at the point where we have to question the ability of the offensive coaches, especially offensive coordinator Danny Abramowitz, quarterback coach Tom Clements, running backs coach Tom Moore and offensive line coach Dick Stanfel. After nine games we should not be witnessing such a total lack of execution on the field. At the very least we should be noting improvement, especially with the players becoming more comfortable with the scheme they are being taught.

Instead the Saints have been shut out two consecutive weeks-a team record. All meaningful statistics: time of possession, first downs, third down conversions, quarterback ratings, rushing yards, sacks allowed, completion percentage and scoring are at or near the bottom of the league. We could point a finger at the players. However, they may be the least to blame for our current troubles. After all, they were selected to be on the team as a result of input from the same scouting department and coaching decisions that delivered an exceptional defense. Even if there is a disparity in the talent level of the thirty starters at any given offensive position in the league, Ditka does not emphasize lack of talent as much as the continued failure to execute to account for our ineffectiveness on offense.

As diehards we always look for reasons to be optimistic in the face of disaster. On the bright side, the defense is improved, as is our special team play. If the offense can come around we could have a competitive team. This is also the first year of a coaching change that brought with it the usual widespread roster changes associated with the hiring of a new staff. Perhaps patience is the key to surviving the remainder of the season.

But we will have to rely on the current offensive coaches and players to turn it around. Is our trust properly placed? After thirty one seasons, those who still call themselves fans have learned to wait and see.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

We waited with anticipation the week prior to Sunday's game against the Panthers for Danny Wuerffel's debut as our starting quarterback. Even if it was unknown how he would perform for an entire game or how the team - especially the offensive line - would respond, a change was long overdue in the minds of most and now game day was upon us.

It seems that the coaches shared the expectations of the fans opting to have the offense introduced to the home crowd in spite of the pathetic performances leading up to Wuerffel's promotion. The home crowd appeared quick to forgive, cheering the offense although saving the loudest ovation for Wuerffel.

Unfortunately, it did not take long for the Panthers to transform the Danny Dome into the Wuerffel House. Before it was over, the Saints had been scattered, smothered, covered, chunked, topped, diced and peppered on the way to a 13 - 0 shutout.

Although his first start was statistically poor, Wuerffel will continue to get the chance to develop. The problem he will face is trying to get better behind an offensive line that has given up more sacks than Schwegmann's. In fact, the most puzzling development of the '97 season has been the inability of the offensive line to protect the passer when historically, pass protection has been a strong suit.

At the halfway mark in the season we have been unable to identify much by way of progress on the offensive side of the ball as Ditka continues to look for answers. As fans, it is especially disconcerting when the coach acknowledges he has run out of options. His response yesterday when asked about the line play was "Look at the roster and there aren't many places to go." Apparently, our only hope is that the players we have will somehow rise to the challenge of blocking better.

In the meantime, how do we continue to view the season? It is a difficult question when we cannot look to the coach for direction. But as fans, we can still anticipate that Wuerffel will develop into a solid pro quarterback while watching his progress. We can hope that Abramowitz will become more innovative, perhaps taking a few pages from Spurrier's playbook as he tries to put Wuerffel in the best position to succeed. Our receivers have been open and now we might see more completions as Wuerffel gets the bulk of repetitions at practice. We can also keep an eye on the defense which continues to progress under Zaven Yaralian.

What we have to hope against is the team losing faith in Ditka. Fortunately the roster is comprised largely of younger players who have yet to develop the cynicism that is a natural result of being associated with a losing organization for too long. If Ditka can keep his troops believing that hard work will pay off, the games should be a lot closer. But until we get some starters playing better on the offensive line, Wuerffel's introduction to the NFL will be a painful experience.

Until Next Time,

The Editor 

Dear Saints Fan,

Going into the season, some questioned the choice of Chris Chandler to successfully lead the Falcons to the promised land. A ten year veteran with a career noted as much for concussions as completions, perhaps the Atlanta brass figured Chandler would not show the wear and tear of past seasons - especially if he could only remember half of them. Chandler's health notwithstanding, The Falcons were able to translate two Saint's fumbles and one of our two interceptions into 17 points as Atlanta prevailed 23 - 17 in the Dome yesterday.

Our record has fallen to 2 - 5, adding to a string of divisional losses, poor performances and the feeling that even the coaches have little idea of what to do next. But in spite of it all, we can now look forward to a new quarterback taking over the reins with Ditka announcing that Wuerffel will get his first start as a Saint this week against the Panthers.

Finding a starting quarterback in the NFL has become increasingly more difficult in recent years. Fourteen seasons after the '83 draft, organizations are still waiting for the next "can't miss" quarterback class to matriculate to the NFL.

Seven games into the season the Saints are still looking for a starting quarterback to lead Ditka's new look Saints. The Shuler experiment is over for the moment. Now we await Wuerffel's chance to run an offense that has problems across the board.

In his limited appearances as a pro, Wuerffel has shown that he is just as susceptible to poor blocking and the lack of a supporting cast as the next guy. But to his credit, Wuerffel has the look of a QB who knows football. He also has the ability to keep his composure, whether in the face of a pass rush-or with a coach in his face. But what are the odds that he will succeed his rookie year?

While fans may continue to argue whether Shuler can ever improve his play in the NFL or if Wuerffel should be expected to perform as a seasoned veteran in spite of his rookie status, a deeper issue lurks in the background. It is the unresolved question of whether Ditka is capable of evaluating talent.

One wonders what Ditka saw in Shuler that the Redskins and teams across the league failed to appreciate. Ditka's only response was that his positive outlook for Shuler was based on a "gut feeling." Until Wuerffel has the time to prove himself, we are left to ponder why Ditka selected him in the fourth round of the draft when the overwhelming majority of G.M.s and scouts did not believe he should have been drafted at all.

As fans, we remain at the mercy of a well intentioned coach facing the hardest of hard times. Ditka's personnel decisions have yet to pay off although the Shuler gamble will be quickly forgotten if Wuerffel can answer the call. But if we remain in need of a quarterback after the season has ended, Ditka's self induced timetable to have the Saints at the pinnacle by his third year will be categorized as another miscalculated judgment of his ability to produce a winner in New Orleans.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

October 6, 1997

Dear Saints Fan,

Until last night it was our little secret. Other than those in the local broadcast area or with satellite dishes, few knew just how ineptly football could be played. Thanks to a national television forum Sunday night, the world at large had the opportunity to see for themselves.

As Saints fans we have been privy to more than our share of embarrassing moments. But our prime time performance in the first half of Sunday's game against the Bears promised to set new standards.

Chicago had studied the film and come up with a game plan. To stop the Saints offense, just give them the ball and have the punt return team ready to take the field in the event the defense did not recover a fumble or intercept an errant pass. The scheme was working until the final moments of the game when Shuler defied the odds, connecting with Randall Hill on the longest touchdown reception in team history to take the lead.

By the time the final credits were scrolling across our screens, we could sense a collective sigh of relief from the diehards mingling with the smoke from Ditka's victory cigar after outlasting the Bears 20 - 17.

This was a win for which the coach can take credit on a gamble that paid off. Ditka was telling anybody who would listen last week that we lacked emotion. He conceded that we were not as good as he thought we would be and that we would have to bite and scratch for any chance to win. The coach stressed "attitude" as the key to better performance. He may have hit the nail on the head. But would this approach work in a sport where it appears that the inmates run the asylum? Ditka risked more than a loss to the Bears when he likened our play against the Giants to a Manhattan shopping spree with the Wall Street Journal tucked neatly under the arms of the players. It was altogether possible that his old style challenge to individual manhood would backfire when directed to players yet to be convinced of the wisdom of his ways much less their own ability to rise to the occasion.

Ditka put his beliefs on the line by insisting that his team play with emotion without knowing how the players would respond. Especially a group who had already been threatened, stroked, yelled at and consoled as Ditka exhausted every last means to improve the performance of his squad.

His approach was especially risky at a time in the NFL when team unity and loyalty to the head coach is hard to come by. With more jobs available than ever before, even marginal players do not run a significant risk of being out of football if they choose to ignore he party line. The situation is aggravated by the development in modern times of competing interests within an organization where it is not unusual for lines to be drawn between the owner, front office, coaching staff and players. Add agents, family and friends to the mix and it becomes even more challenging to build an organization with everyone on the same page.

These days it takes a strong leader in the organization for there to be any chance of success. We can all recall the days when Jim Finks was the spokesman for the Saints. There was never a question as to who led the team in good times or bad. When Jim Finks entered the room you knew who was the boss.

Ditka has assumed this role with the Saints. In the process he will look foolish from time to time as his ability to lead the organization is measured weekly by his team's performance on the field. But at long last we have a man in place to take the heat or accept the accolades as the Iron Era continues to mark time.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Another Monday morning with more questions than answers, this time following a 14 - 9 loss to the Giants in a game Ditka thought we should have won. After defeating the Lions the previous week, Saints fans were looking forward to the possibility of a streak of victories against the Giants, Chicago and Atlanta. Instead, we are 1 - 4 and wondering who should be on the starting roster rather than when our next victory will arrive.

While the season is relatively young, by this point in time it was expected that Ditka's off season roster shake up would have translated into improved performance on the field. Not that the team would have necessarily ended up with a better record, but at least we should have been able to confirm that a foundation had been established for success in the future.

Unfortunately, none of Ditka's off season acquisitions have made a significant impact thus far. We remain at the bottom of the league not only on the basis of our record, but also in terms of potential if the last five games are any indication.

Our expectations over the next few weeks should not be influenced so much by anticipated wins and losses, but the level of play Ditka is able to squeeze out of the players he has assembled. Ditka's post game comments seemed to reflect his intentions in the weeks to come when he noted that certain players were not justifying their starting positions. When backups are outperforming starters, then the backups should start. But will we see a better team as a result?

It would be unfortunate if Ditka has to view the remainder of the regular season as an extended training camp. But until he is able to sort through the roster and find his starters, he is left with little choice.

We can anticipate some substitutions in the defensive backfield where Allen and Newman have struggled. If the team is to take advantage of blitzes to put heat on the opposing quarterback, our corners will have to play better man coverage with support from the safeties. Mickey Washington, Je'Rod Cherry and Rob Kelly could each get more time with the first unit.

But the situation is even more urgent on the offensive side of the ball where we have yet to show consistency in any phase of the game. Passing, running, blocking and receiving have all been bitter disappointments in light of the massive overhaul Ditka undertook in the offseason to improve those areas.

Many fans believe the answer is to substitute Wuerffel for Shuler. Others claim Troy Davis should be starting ahead of Bates. Against the Giants, starting wide outs Hastings and Hill took a back seat to John Farquhar, a tight end picked up after the second week of the season. Naeole has yet to unseat Verstegan, who got the starting guard position at the end of the preseason after Donald Willis failed to show interest.

Due to the short list of backups from whom Ditka can call upon, we may not see as many new faces on offense as the situation seems to warrant. But it is likely that Troy Davis, Brett Bech and Danny Wuerffel will all get the chance to show what they can do while the remaining starters will be challenged to play better.

The season can be salvaged to some extent if Ditka can coach a roster comprised of largely unproven players to overachieve. But in the meantime, we can only wait to see just how far we can improve before the final gun sounds on the '97 campaign.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

 
Dear Saints Fan,

While not a law of physics, disappointment can be measured by the amount of hope we assign to our expectations.

The countdown to Sunday's game against the Lions was shaken by an 0 - 3 start that left no doubt we would be taking our first steps toward respectability from rock bottom. Following a resounding 35 - 17 victory over the Lions we have to guard our hope for the remainder of the season with the realization that there is still a long way to go before we turn the corner on becoming a contender.

Our success against Detroit can be credited to several outstanding individual performances. The most noticeable improvement was with Shuler, who ran for one touchdown, hit Hobbs for another and did not suffer an interception. Bates had a career day highlighted by a 74 yard score when he outran a defensive back on his way to the end zone. Our receivers caught nearly every ball thrown their way. The offensive line protected Shuler and opened big holes for Bates. Wayne Martin tied a club record with four sacks. The front seven held Barry Sanders to one score and pressured Mitchell throughout the day with the secondary intercepting three of Mitchell's passes and knocking down several others. We won in September for the first time since 1994. All told, it was a great day to be a Saints Fan.

Now we wait to see whether the level of play we saw Sunday can be sustained and improved upon following one victory against three defeats.

Keeping the season in perspective, we should view Shuler's big day with cautious optimism. We hope his bad days are behind him but have only one performance out of three on which to base our expectations. The same can be said for Bates who has historically turned in a big game now and then but for the most part remains a straight ahead runner who has yet to show he has the strength and durability to be a consistent power back over the course of a season. The offensive line, receivers and defense have to show that last week was not an aberration.

But since it has been proven on the field that success is possible, Shuler, Bates and the rest of the team have more than blind faith as a foothold for the future. The question now is not whether we can win, but if we can continue to win.

We go into the next three weeks with games against the Giants, Chicago and Atlanta who have a combined record of 1 - 11 at this point in the season. This does not assure us that we will be 4 - 3 when the dust settles, but we have a reasonable chance to improve the record. It is also possible that we will have another series of setbacks. How we view the next few games should reflect what we saw Sunday, but should be tempered by what we witnessed the three weeks prior.

Evaluating Ditka's inaugural season with the Saints is a work in progress. But this week we can all enjoy the afterglow of a great performance while looking forward to the next chance to move up the ladder.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

After nineteen turnovers in three games, watching the Saints has become a lot like rubber necking a car wreck. But witnessing eight turnovers on the way to a 33 - 7 loss to the 49ers was too much, even if Saints fans are among the most qualified in the league to view a disaster.

Was T.J. Simers right? Are we the worst team in the league? At this juncture, we are. Will we improve? Probably; but questions as to how and when remain unanswered.

Most fans believe the first step Ditka must take to improve the offense is to substitute Wuerffel for Shuler. While this argument has merit, it should not be overlooked that we have yet to run the ball effectively or protect the passer. It is also apparent that the "conversations" between Ditka and Abramowitz on the sidelines have been heated and that our starting receivers were no better than third string for their previous teams.

There is no question that the offense needs a spark; but whether Wuerffel can provide it remains to be seen. It will matter little who takes the snap from center if the running game, pass protection and play calling continue to falter.

Ditka apparently eliminated any speculation about his solution to turn the offense around when he benched Shuler in the second half of our loss to the 49ers. Shuler had three and a half games to prove himself and not only failed, but failed miserably. Unfortunately, Wuerffel ended one half of play with three interceptions of his own. The difference however is that Wuerffel appears to understand the defenses he is facing while Shuler does not seem to know what is occurring on the other side of the ball. Shulers' accuracy is also questionable on those occasions when he gets a good read.

If Shuler, Wuerffel and Nussmeier all fail to get the job done, we will be in position to draft Manning. On the other hand, if one of the present QBs performs, we will not have to ponder a decision on Manning since it will then be unlikely we will have the first selection in the '98 Draft.

Lurking behind our current dilemma at QB is the failure to learn a lesson from the post-Finks era. Namely, coaches should not have control over personnel beyond the decision to keep, cut or play a player. The acquisition of Shuler was Ditka's decision without the imprimatur of Kuharich and Franklin. The lines of authority will remain blurred in the Saints organization until Kuharich takes the lead in disputes over player acquisition. As one who is fond of quoting Finks, Kuharich should remember the advice of his mentor that "Owners should own; Managers, manage; and Coaches, coach."

Ditka will need time to build this team. So far it has been a painful process. But unlike his predecessor, Da Coach will not let stubborn loyalty interfere with his plans.

Until Next Time,

The Editor 

Dear Saints Fan,

Go to your favorite chair, put your feet up, take a deep breath and repeat after me "We will make a way. We will make a way…."

The prolonged agony of being a Saints fan is akin to being raised in a dysfunctional family. In the course of thirty years we had hoped by now to have reconciled the abuse suffered in the past only to be recently reminded that the problem has not gone away. Such is the resignation of many who have already thrown in the towel for the '97 season.

After 30 seasons we have heard every excuse, both plausible and otherwise, to account for the franchise's failures. Until a few weeks ago, most of the fans had embraced Ditka as the coach who would turn things around. But it seems that some fans are too accustomed to empty promises to believe he can still do it after an 0 - 2 start. If anything, the final years of the Mora era destroyed a previously loyal fan base with his ongoing mockery of those who had once supported the team through good times and bad.

Yet those of us still willing to stand by the team have good reasons to do so while Ditka tries to work his magic on one of the least successful franchises in sports history.

To begin with, Ditka did not inherit enough veteran talent to win a lot of games. Even though Mora claimed in his exit interview that the squad was "very, very close to being a very, very good team", we all know his impression was not well founded. Ditka began to address the talent issue in the off season primarily through the draft. He also made a commitment to let the younger players gain experience on the field. In the meantime, we have the opportunity to watch Naeole, Wuerffel,Davis, Molden, Brady Smith, Fields, Tubbs, Mitchell, Tomich, Kelly and others develop.

Ditka also acquired key free agents, including three current starters at receiver, a veteran center, defensive tackle and, for better or worse, Heath Shuler who has yet to impress in his years as a pro. Ditka has accomplished a great deal in one off season to address the talent issue. The focus now is to coach them to play to their potential while learning to play together as a team.

Ditka will need this season to reevaluate what he saw on film coming into the job and get a better idea of our strengths and weaknesses going into his second off season. In the process he cannot be expected to bat .1000, but we can expect that he will know when a mistake has been made and will try to make the necessary correction - even if the mistake was his own.

We can also anticipate that Ditka's presence will compel a closer look at other aspects of the franchise where improvement can be made. This includes his coaching staff over which he has direct control, as well Football Operations which includes the scouting department and other areas under Kuharich's direct authority but not immune from Ditka's influence. The bottom line is getting the players, then putting them in position to win.

For the time being we have likely seen the last sell out in the Dome until the fans on the fringe are convinced we have a winner. But for the diehards, we will continue to watch and appreciate the process. Don't forget to breath!

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

On September 17, 1967 John Gilliam returned the opening kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown. It was one of the few bright spots for the Saints in our inaugural game as we ultimately lost to the Rams 27 - 13. Thirty years later Eric Guiliford returned a kickoff 102 yards for a touchdown in one of the few bright spots for the Saints, as we dropped another season opener to the Rams 38 - 24. For an organization attempting to establish a new image it seems that the more things change, the more they stay the same.

The reason Sundays' loss hurts is because we believed things had changed ahead of schedule. Ditka had the fans, the team and himself convinced we would show up in St. Louis to usher in a new era with a victory. We were prepared to celebrate, but not to accept defeat - especially a lopsided loss at the hands of another young team with a new head coach.

If opening day can teach us a lesson, it is the realization of where we are in the first stages of the Ditka era. Success this year is more in line with 6 - 10 or 7 - 9, than 11 - 5. This was the first of 48 regular season games Ditka agreed to coach when he signed a three year deal in January. We still have sound reasons to expect a turnaround, but we have to be realistic with the time frame.

Unlike Mora, who came in with an established roster courtesy of Bum Phillips, Ditka inherited a team that has suffered from poor personnel decisions caused by Mora's failure to overcome the challenges of free agency and the salary cap. This has forced Ditka to clean house rather than simply motivate good athletes to play to their potential. Ditka's first challenge is to rebuild the roster with talented players and then teach them how to win.

We have not had time to judge Ditka as a talent evaluator. But his first move was to trade for Shuler and give him the starting job. Few will argue against the fact that Q.B. is the most important position on the team. It is also hard to argue that Shuler had the type of outing we had hoped for opening day. But it would be foolish to give up on Shuler based on Sunday's performance just as it would to concede the remainder of the season. If Shuler does not come around according to Ditka's schedule, we appear fortunate to have Wuerffel on standby.

One of the differences that distinguishes Ditka from Mora is Ditka's willingness to make a change in the lineup if a player is not performing. We can be assured that our opening day roster will change to some degree this week and if necessary, throughout the season. It is too early to seriously announce a quarterback controversy, but players such as Wuerffel, Troy Davis, Rob Kelly, Keith Mitchell and Jared Tomich can be expected to see playing time if the guys starting ahead of them fail to produce. Needless to say, Naeole will be in the lineup as soon as he is physically able.

Fans can be fickle. Throughout the history of the team too many of us forecast doom after a loss and salvation after a victory. With a win over the Chargers this week, some will proclaim that we have turned it around. Should we lose, some will say we are in the tank the rest of the season. The better approach may be to expect the sort of results common sense dictates when there is a new coach and a young team taking the first steps to shape a 3 - 13 team into a winner.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

As we look forward to opening day, our prospects for the '97 season remain unclear. Just how good will we be this year? How much can we rely on the preseason to gauge our progress? Will Ditka's influence push an untested team to play beyond the expectations of the preseason prognosticators, most of whom have us winning six and losing ten?

For anyone attempting to evaluate the Saints at this juncture, perhaps the most telling observation would be offered by Saturday Night Live character Rosanne Roseannadanna: "You sure have a lot of questions !"

The best that can be said for the Saints this year is that our chances for success will truly be a week to week proposition. And we should all be hard pressed to rely on the week before to make a forecast as the season unfolds.

Of the many adages Ditka has spewed thus far, the most telling, as it pertains to this season, is "If you live in the past, you die in the past." We cannot rely on Ditka's history with the Bears or, for that matter, a relatively successful preseason to predict what will happen this week in St. Louis. But for diehard fans, we can sense that there is something "different" about this team since Ditka took over. It is a feeling that we will go into every game believing we will win.

This will be a season where we will entrust the fate of the team to the coach. There will be little cause for second guessing. The frustration that hangs over any fan who thinks the outcome of a game would have been different "if only…" will be replaced by the belief that Ditka knows better than us. At least for now.

We can follow the Saints with anticipation throughout the season as we witness the reshaping of the team into Da Coach's mold of what it takes to win it all. In spite of the history of a franchise that has left us with empty promises, this time seems different. In fact, the most difficult aspect of being a fan on the eve of the Ditka era is the manner in which we address the ingrained belief that we will be let down again.

In spite of the fact that we have new coaches, a new system and a roster full of largely untested players, Ditka refuses to let anyone believe that we cannot be successful. "If we cannot find a way, make a way !" The fans are ready to believe again.

There should be a lot of surprises this year. I get the feeling that most of them will be in the NFC where the 49ers and Cowboys may relinquish their reign as perennial contenders. I anticipate room at the top in '97 that will be filled with some new faces. As Ditka queries, "Why not us?"

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

We have seen nothing but steady progress since Ditka was hired several months ago. After two consecutive preseason victories, it becomes all the more difficult to imagine we are a young team with a revamped roster coming off a 3 - 13 season. To date, we have not had to deal with a major setback. But there will be some bumps in the road before all is said and done.

To his credit, Ditka has prepared for our anticipated struggles in his inaugural season with the Saints. He has done this primarily by loading the roster with young players. That is the only way to keep the team believing it can succeed when it comes up short.

Jimmy Johnson used this strategy when he took over the Cowboys. By releasing veterans who were nearing the end of their careers and replacing them with younger players, Johnson kept his team believing it would improve - given time to do so. Johnson is hoping to repeat that process in Miami where he cleared the roster in spite of the salary cap to get younger players. Now in his second year, many are predicting the Dolphins will be post-season contenders.

Turning a team around takes time. It serves no useful purpose for the Saints to establish a squad of veterans hoping to achieve any long term success. A team in need of a substantial overhaul cannot be hastily rebuilt with aging players. Veterans will be the first to revolt when the team encounters tough times since their time-frame for success is limited. Ditka is following Johnson's blueprint for success by opting for youth over experience. But it seems unlikely at this juncture that we will have to endure the 1 - 15 start Johnson's Cowboys posted his first season.

Without question, free agency can help a team reach a new level quicker than ever before. But long term success is still the product of good drafts and coaching younger players to reach their full potential. Nowadays there is the added burden of making sound free agent acquisitions and balancing the salary cap.

We have a long way to go from 3 - 13 to the Super Bowl. But at this point in the preseason, it is impossible to ignore the fact that this years' Saints are responding to Ditka's mantra that "If we can't find a way, we will make a way."

Regardless of the outcome, this team will play with the attitude that they deserve to win. Lately, that attitude has translated into a two game winning streak - even if it is preseason. Ditka plans to build a winner one step at a time. For now, it looks like he has a solid foundation in place.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

For those of you watching the NFL for the first time, allow me to distinguish the exhibition season from the regular season and post season. The four game exhibition season does not count. The sixteen game regular season serves to qualify a team for the playoffs. Once the playoffs begin, the season starts all over again with single elimination games played until one team is left standing as Super Bowl champion. I repeat, the four game exhibition season does not count !

So why, may you ask, is there an exhibition season? Perhaps for the same reason we take unsuspecting children to see Santa Claus before Christmas day. It allows for hope and expectation. Just as every kid wants a pony, Saints fans are asking for a Super Bowl victory. And even though some lucky kid will get the pony, last year he lived in Green Bay.

For the sake of those who cannot live with the disappointment of finding something less than expected under the tree, do not place your hopes and expectations on the results of preseason football. Especially those of us who have had to settle for a pair of socks while the other kids got toys.

In spite of our better judgment, the preseason victory over the Oilers has been translated into a feeling that the recent past is well behind us. Shuler looked great leading the team to a touchdown on the opening drive, taking it to the end zone on a Q.B. sneak. The defense played with intensity, holding up when the opposition tried to go for it on fourth down. The blockers blocked, the receivers caught, the defenders tackled and we won the game.

Yet, whether it counts or not, Saints fans will watch every play of the preseason hoping toend witness the birth of an era of high expectation. As much as the performance of the team in its first preseason game raised that hope, Ditka's presence on the sideline seemed to confirm it.

Jimmy Johnson left the college ranks to join the Cowboys only to wind up 1 - 15 his first season, which began with a 28 - 0 loss to the Saints. We all know what followed. The incredible aspect of Johnson's success is how he kept the team believing in him after such a devastating debut with no prior track record in the NFL. In the event the Saints are confronted with a similar struggle, Ditka seems to have the same qualities Johnson called upon to keep his team in the fight.

We have new coaches, new players and new hopes. Even if we are not much better, we will be significantly different. And though we will not know what we have until the end of the season, for now I'm looking for a pony.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

It has been a tumultuous off season since the final gun sounded on the '96 campaign. Without a G.M. or head coach in place, we suffered through Benson's agonizing search to fill those positions before settling on Kuharich and Ditka. From that point forward, we have witnessed Ditka's "throw-back" philosophy in action as he directed the draft and free agent signing period while trimming the roster of players who did not fit his mold.

The time for speculation is nearly over with the opening of training camp this week. We will have only a short time left to visualize our hopes for the upcoming season. Come opening day, our dreams will confront the reality of the '97 season.

What can we reasonably expect from the Saints in '97 ? At the very least we will have a coach on the sideline whose desire to win will be openly exhibited. Mora's stoicism will be replaced by Ditka's emotional involvement with the game, visibly sharing the disappointments and the elation fans experience while watching their team.

We can expect the emergence of vocal leaders. Ditka's personality will influence and encourage players to express themselves whether by a head slap or high five rather than the "business-like" manner Mora exuded which ultimately resulted in a team of individual introspects reluctant to speak out.

We can expect a renewed enthusiasm from the fans as we rise to support the team. We will enjoy again the true home field advantage we once supplied when the noise created by the Dome crowd kept the opposition from calling a play.

We can expect to see significant playing time from most of the rookies. While our first year players may be expected to struggle, the only way they will improve is by being tested on the field. If Ditka drafted as well as he believes he has, we should expect to see Naeole, Kelly and Troy Davis as starters along with Tomich sharing duties at defensive end with Brady Smith. It is also possible that Wuerffel will see his share of playing time if Shuler is injured, or throws too many interceptions.

We can expect more national media coverage. Ditka has already piqued the interests of supporters and critics alike. Win or lose, the Saints are finally on the map. In the past, we have come up short drawing attention outside our local area, even during our short-lived success under Mora. Ditka will keep us in the news throughout the season.

We can expect that Ditka will have the team ready to play. The schemes that will be employed in all three phases of the game will be a refreshing change from recent years. While the offense may be labeled conservative, it will not be predictable. Abramowitz will not be afraid to call an innovative play when appropriate. The defense will have multiple "looks" and special teams will be comprised of kamikazes who want to get to the ball. Half-time will no longer be a rest and recuperation period, but the opportunity to make adjustments. The team will be fundamentally sound , physically and mentally prepared to execute what they have been taught.

Finally, and most importantly, we can expect a winning team. With only 1500 or so men in the entire world capable of making an NFL roster, there is not a great deal of difference in athletic ability. What separates the winners from the losers is "heart" and the desire to win. Ditka knows what it takes to be successful as a player and a coach. He will use the opinions of the preseason prognosticators who have us challenging for no more than the first pick in the '98 draft to inspire his team to overachieve. The players Ditka has assembled thrive on the comments of those who say that they cannot win. This sort of negative expectation from the outside will become the rallying cry of Ditka's Saints.

In another week or so we will be able to check our TV listings for football , with the expectation that the Saints will field a team worthy of our support. Let the games begin !

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Viva Las Vegas! The preseason odds are out, fueling speculation about our hopes for a successful campaign in '97. The initial odds are "over/under" numbers for expected victories. The Saints opened at 8 but quickly fell to 7 as we await opening day. While it may be easy to assume that this year's team will be improved from last season, evaluating our progress against the other teams in the league is still a shot in the dark.

In the NFC West alone there will be four new coaches and attending staffs. Dom Capers has become the dean of the division entering his third year as coach of the Panthers. Coupled with free agency and the draft, program sales should soar as fans attempt to put names with numbers when their teams take the field.

This preseason will be especially intriguing for Saints fans. Most observers have come to accept Ditka as the man who can ultimately direct the team to victory. But he will have to rely on his players to perform once the whistle sounds. The unanswered question at this juncture is not whether Ditka has the ability to motivate, but the degree to which he will excel as an evaluator of talent.

Ditka describes his intentions as making the Saints "younger and faster" as well as "bigger and stronger." With Ditka, these are not clich‚s considering the magnitude of the roster moves we have witnessed in his first off season. But it is still too early to conclude that we have the young, fast, big and strong players who can beat the opposition.

We may have to concede the adage that there is no substitute for experience while the team comes together. We can expect as many as thirteen new starters come opening day, including a quarterback who will have little to no experience and a first year offensive coordinator. It would be contrary to common sense to believe that this squad will be at its best in Ditka's first year, much less early in the season.

If Ditka is on the mark, we should expect continued improvement week to week. And if we get a few lucky bounces early, being in contention for a play off spot as the regular season winds down is not out of the question.

Until proven otherwise, perhaps our expectations should be in line with the Vegas wise guys who make a living grading the field. If you do not think so, bet the "over."

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Flashback. After a 2 - 6 start Mora resigns, ending the tenure of the only coach ever to produce a winning season in New Orleans. Bill Kuharich announces Chet Franklin as interim coach only to succumb to player resentment and later announce Venturi as Mora's successor.

We end the season 3 - 13 hanging on to Benson's promise that he would hire a G.M., who in turn would hire our next coach. We draw national derision at Benson's "application process." We forfeited the head start Mora's resignation provided while other teams in need of new coaches filled their openings. In the meantime, Kuharich and the scouting department operated under lame duck status to review the college bowl season and prepare for the draft.

Rumors began to circulate about Bill Polian coming to the Saints. But we would have to wait until the Panthers were eliminated from the playoffs to avoid tampering. After the Panthers' loss to Green Bay in the NFC Championship game, Panther ownership declined permission to allow Benson to talk with Polian.

By this time, the only fans left were those who had long since surrendered to the Black and Gold sirens for reasons now forgotten. We had been beaten at every turn.

But in the days preceeding the Super Bowl the media began circulating Mike Ditka's name as our next coach. His acceptance was confirmed a few days later. Immediate reaction was mixed. Could Ditka find his way in this era of free agency and salary caps? The media questioned him and he answered. Lately, Ditka's active responses to what it will take to turn the team around have outpaced the ability to question him. His presence has shocked the hearts of fans back to life. We have moved from despair to hope, and now to expectation.

Ditka's appeal is that he has fulfilled our desire for action beyond the usual cliches. His moves have been widespread and decisive, defined by an attitude that you have to enjoy what you do to succeed. He has done this in spite of the "show me the money" attitude that has lately become the banner of sports. Ditka is molding a team whose primary fulfillment is winning.

Ditka's Saints have yet to post a score. But considering where we were before he joined the organization, it is enough for now that we can raise our heads as Saints fans.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

The inevitable occurred sooner than later when Ditka announced Everett's release last week. The move is effective June 2 to soften the impact of Everett's salary against the cap. McMillian was also given his walking papers as of June 2. The combined cuts have freed approximately $3.8 million, giving us the money needed to sign our rookies and then some. We went from near the bottom to close to the top of teams with available money under the cap with those two moves alone.

It appears that Shuler has the starting job. It also looks like we have a better depth chart at QB than in years past with Nussemeier and Wuerffel behind Shuler. The question now is whether these guys can live up to their resumes and get the job done on the field.

With little to no game day experience, our QBs bring only potential to the table. Under these circumstances, Ditka will have to put his eggs in one basket when it comes to preseason repititions. Shuler will need every opportunity to sharpen his skills in order to lead the team come opening day. The problem we may face this year is the ability of Nussemeier or Wuerffel to come off the bench if Shuler is forced out of action. Ditka's dilemna in preseason will be the amount of time to allocate to each of his QBs as he installs a system unfamiliar to each of them. In the process, he will have to settle on his backup and hope to have him ready to play.

The battle between Nussemeier and Wuerffel for the number two spot cannot be understated. Shuler has had injury problems throughout his short career in the NFL. The odds are prohibitive that Shuler will not be in for every offensive play over the course of the season. This is particularly important in light of the offense which will utilize a rolling pocket and call on the QB to scramble for yards when the receivers are not open.

It has been reported that the offense will be simplified this year. Perhaps this will take the pressure off the backup when it comes to game day preparation. All the same, we will enter the '97 campaign with little more than rookie experience at the most important position on the team.

When it comes to athletic ability and using the QB as a multifaceted weapon, I could not agree more with the decisions Ditka has made at the position. The question is whether we have the type of mobile QB that is closer to Farvre than Fourcade.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

The draft is over, mini camp is completed and now we have officially entered the dog days for professional football fans. The next significant events will be the veteran free agent signing period and the start of training camp. Before then, we will be left to entertain ourselves.

Some things I am looking forward to when the season begins:

Naeole vs. Russell in game ten against Oakland. Russell was the number two pick we could have had if we held onto our original position in the draft. Ditka said that after interviewing Russell that he would not take him, prompting the trade with Oakland that we used for Naeole. Both these guys will have something to prove in that game.

Rob Kelly knocking out Jerry Rice with a jarring tackle that keeps Rice from ever running a quick slant against us again.

Jared Tomich and Brady Smith getting into a fight on the field when Tomich refuses to let Smith substitute for him. From that day forward they are called "The Hanson Brothers". (Hope you saw the movie Slapshot--if not, it's a must see!)

Keith Poole's first reception over the middle after taking a big hit and laying the ball down at the feet of the defender who is still unconscious.

Troy Davis turning a typical trap play from our one yard line into a ninety-nine yard sprint to the end zone after breaking five tackles.

Danny Wuerffel directing the offense in the same unstoppable fashion he showed at Florida with the winning touchdown pass caught by Nicky Savoie.

As you can tell, the dog days often turn into day dreams. I just hope the fans don't boo Ditka the first time he calls a run on 3d and 5.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

This was a no name draft before it started. Now that it's over some are claiming that the Saints did not pick the right players or, in the case of first round pick Chris Naeole, that we could have traded down and still been able to get him. So what! Ditka stood by his pre-draft proclaimation that he was going to find "players" not "prospects" and went after the men who fit that mold.

Apparently Ditka could care less what the so-called experts think of his first draft as a Saint. All that matters to him is putting a team on the field composed of people who love the game and want to play. Much has been said about the character issue. But until the draft was completed, defining character using Ditka's dictionary was somewhat ambiguous. Now we now that when Ditka refers to "character" he is talking about players who live to play the game-the type of player who will commit to the game rather than the football as a business attitude that has nearly wrecked the league.

As fans, we have to realize that it will take more than one draft to turn the team around. In addition to getting us started in that direction, Ditka is establishing the personality of the team he ultimately wants by selecting players with toughness, tenacity and backgrounds of competing successfully in major college programs against top opponents. Ditka wants overacheivers who work hard and won't quit. The players he drafted reflect that quality. These are the guys who will become fan favorites in the mold of a Danny Abramowitz, Rickey Jackson and Willie Roaf. They will work hard, play hard and give the fans a team that we will be excited to call our own regardless of our record this year.

I also expect that for the first time in years we will be active in the college free agent market, signing players who went undrafted over the weekend. Ditka still has a long way to go building the Saints and will remain active in the free agent market as we look for a middle linebacker, offensive linemen, receivers and interior defensive linemen. I expect us to pick up a few veteran free agents as well to address those needs although I believe Ditka would rather shape rookies into his mold than guys looking for a better contract.

As with any draft, we will not be able to grade this one until the real amunition is fired in the regular season. But Ditka believes he has the guys ready to take a bullet for him and there are few who know better than Iron Mike what it takes to win a football game.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Just a theory on the upcoming draft. I think the Saints will spend their early round picks on offensive linemen before selecting a running back. The benefit of drafting a running back with our top pick to attempt to run behind our current offfensive line would be questionable. Not that there would be no improvement by picking Antowain Smith or Corey Dillion, but it would be the better decision to establish the line first.

With the possibility of replacing Dombrowski, finding a new center, moving McCollum to guard and looking to improve the right tackle spot, it is possible that Roaf will be the only starter playing at his position in '97. It will be mid -season at best before the line comes together and even longer if a couple of rookies are asked to contribute.

Adding further credence to this theory is the liklihood that Troy Davis,Bryan Hanspard ,Tiki Barber or Darnell Autrey will be available when we pick in the third round. If we take a skill player early, it will be a receiver who would have a better chance of success than a running back this year while the line develops.

If we take a running back with our first pick and wait until next year to solidify the line, we will have to wait until 1999 before the line comes together. In the meantime, the high priced back gets off to a poor start. Keep in mind that the team needs a substantial overhaul and expectations for the '97 season should be tempered. Even Ditka will need more than one draft to turn the team around.

The Shuler deal is still up in the air although most of the news is reporting that the deal will happen before draft day. It is still puzzling to me that we are the only suitors for Shuler when Arizona, the 49ers and Atlanta (to name a few) need back up quarterbacks. Interestingly, I'm told that the Saints have attended every workout that Druckenmiller has held for the scouts. It is possible that we could take him with our first pick without the expectation that he would be asked to start behind our current line. But with the Saints intent on trading down for even more picks, our chance to get Druckenmiller will be limited. With only Everett and Nussemeir on the roster and Cunningham signing with the Vikings, quarterback will have to be addressed by signing Shuler, Druckenmiller or another player to fill the spot. I think we need some experience at the back up position although Ditka has spoken favorably of Wuerffel as a possible draft choice.

This draft will be critical if Ditka is to be successful by his third and final year of his contract. The problem is that we are several players away from being a decent tream. From the middle of the first round through the top of the third there is little difference in the talent of this year's rookie crop. Our best bet is to accomplish what Kuharich has set out to do-namely, get as many picks as we can in those rounds and attempt to bring in linemen on both sides of the ball, a wide receiver, running back and middle linebacker. If we have enough picks it would not surprise me to see us draft a punter as well.

This theory will be tested Saturday and Sunday. But regardless of how we approach this draft, it should be successful if only for the fact that we will have so many opportunities to select early and often throughout.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

There is finally some off-season activity worthy of comment beginning with the trade of our first round pick to Oakland in exchange for theirs.

We would not have traded the number two pick if the organization was convinced that Pace would have been there. Pace is the only "difference maker" in the draft this year and as such, will likely be the first player taken whether it's by the Jets or another team (likely Oakland). Darrell Russell has too many questions about his level of maturity and willingness to work to warrant consideration as one of the top two picks. Much like Big Daddy Wilkinson with the Bengals, Russell may never rise to the challenge of the NFL.

Another factor prompting the trade is that we are obviously more than one player away from being a decent team. Saddled with the poor personnel moves of the last several seasons, Ditka has no choice than to practically start from square one overhauling the roster. His first moves will be to free the roster of those being overpaid and then try to sign as many rookies as possible, much like Carolina and Jacksonville in their first year , to build for the future. But the future won't be that far off for Ditka--while the team will be young, he will have a sufficient number of veterans, including Shuler, to lead the way.

The Shuler deal is so cap friendly that it's next to impossible to believe the Saints are involved with the deal. His first two years will only count a four hundred fifty thousand dolars against the cap, escalating in the final two years of his contract. If Shuler doesn't work out it won't hurt us. If he does, we didn't risk overspending to find out. My major concern about Shuler is that Norv Turner is considered to be one of the best quarterback coaches in the league. Shuler was his guy and he gave up on him. It will be up to Ditka, Abramowitz and quarterback coach Tom Clemmons to do something Turner couldn't. Time will tell.

It should be interesting to follow the personnel moves Ditka makes as we approach the draft. I expect the Shuler deal will involve a draft pick and a player (which will free up more money). I also expect some outright cuts of veteran players who have yet to live up to their contracts. Even more exciting are the prospects Ditka will bring in to fill out his first roster as a Saint. By the way, don't be surprised to see some front office moves, particularly in the scouting department after the draft is over.

Will will probably see much more personnel activity in the next week or two prior to the draft. Ditka had the opportunity to evaluate his present squad first hand at the team's first mini camp. He should be ready to commit to decisions as to team needs in the draft. It looks like he would prefer to sign free agents prior to the draft, although he may not have too much control over the timing of the free agent market.

It's my feeling at his time that the Saints could lean toward taking Jim Druckenmiller in the draft if he's available with the 10th selection. With so little initial money tied up in the Shuler deal (assuming it comes off) we would be well served to draft Druckenmiller. If he is not available (Arizona may take him with the 9th selection) we will take a wide receiver or trade down for either a receiver or offensive lineman. I don't see us taking Warrick Dunn, who will be the first running back selected in the draft and who will likely be available at the 10 spot.

The second round should produce a running back and middle linebacker while the later rounds could get us additional offensive lineman, defensive backs, another tight end and possibly a punter. With so many selections the Saints will have the luxury of targeting several players at different need positions in this draft.

The initial excitement of the '97 season is only a few weeks away. With different faces expected at some key positions, it should be a busy off season.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Heath Shuler, Randall Cunningham, Jim Druckenmiller and even Doug Flutie have drawn the interest of the Saints as we approach the draft. All of these quarterbacks have the ability to run with the ball to make things happen. Everett does not fit that profile. I would not be at all surprised to see the Saints make a pre-draft deal for Shuler. Then, if Pace is still available as the second pick in the draft, the Saints will trade the pick to Seattle in exchange for the 11th and 12th picks the Seahawks have in the first round. If we get back to back first round picks, Jim Druckenmiller could be a Saint.

It did not take long for Ditka to conclude that Everett does not fit his offensive plan. Had the Saints decided to keep the same offensive system from last season, Everett would no doubt stay and start. But Abramowitz will install a new offense. He has promised it will be an aggressive scheme focused on running the ball. He has also stated it will be a simplified offense without a litany of numbers, colors etc. defining the play in the huddle. The plan is to give the quarterback more time at the line of scrimmage to adjust the play.

Jim Everett's days are numbered with the Saints. He has gone on record to say he would not play as a back up with New Orleans. I expect the organization will keep him until after June 1st to lessen the impact his contract has on the cap. We can expect that Cunningham will be signed on or about that time to join Shuler and Druckenmiller.

A word of caution-Shuler is likely not the long term answer to the Saints' need at quarterback Neither is Cunningham. But both of these quarterbacks are cap friendly and should be able to execute Abramowitz's system adequately while Druckenmiller is developed. Cutting Everett will be as much a salary cap move as Ditka's attempt to address a position that he says lacks competition. Druckenmiller will be the key to the future of the quarterback position with the Saints.

While the Saints have made no signings of note in the off season, we should be encouraged as the organization pursues Shuler, Cunningham, Fontenot and Hastings. The draft will get us a running back and hopefully, the quarterback of the future.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

Now that Peyton has announced he will stay at Tennessee we can begin analyzing the upcoming draft in earnest. It seems that all we have heard to date was whether we would take Manning or Pace. The question now becomes who will replace Manning in the first two selections of the draft.

While there is no consensus to date, I believe Darrell Russell, the D.T. from USC will emerge as a top pick. Considering Parcells' affinity for defensive players, Russell could be the first player selected if the Jets choose first on draft day. This would leave Pace for the Saints.

One problem that Manning has caused us is the relative value of the number two pick. Unless Pace is available, the next group of players could go anywhere in the top ten. I doubt any team would want to trade up to the number two slot in the draft when they could likely do as well trading up to the fifth or sixth spot. As strange as it sounds, we could end up being "stuck" with the second selection of the draft, unable to trade it for additional players.

The interesting factor this year will be our selections in rounds two through seven. While this draft is considered weak in terms of blue chip prospects, we should be able to get a decent rookie crop. It will be interesting to evaluate Ditka's influence on the draft, especially in terms of his desire to choose the best athlete over need. Fortunately, with high selections throughout the draft, he can likely address both.

Look for the Saints to choose aggressive players in the draft and free agency. Ditka will go for tenacity over finesse when rating players. I think Kuharich will follow Ditka's lead regarding the profile Ditka wants on his squad and identify the players who fill that role. In that respect, I do not foresee much in the way of conflict between the coach and G.M. on draft day. In fact, I think Kuharich and the rest of the staff are looking forward to the new direction Ditka provides in terms of player qualities.

In addition to the draft we can also look forward to a new offensive play book under the direction of first time coordinator Danny Abramowitz. The fans can expect more aggressive play calling on the offensive side of the ball. While it may not be wide open, we can at least anticipate that with thirty seconds left in the half, we will try to score rather than take a knee.

Realistically, the prologue to the '97 season may be more exciting than the results. Ditka and company have a long way to go before the Saints are legitimate contenders. But as long as we are moving in the right direction, I am sure we will be willing to accept progress at his point in Ditka's tenure as a Saint.

The draft gurus should be warming up now as we count down the days to the end of April. Stay tuned.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

We've had so little to identify with in 30 years. Archie, the Dome Patrol and, uh...that's about it! Now we have Ditka , who could one day have his banner added to the Wall of Fame in the Dome. When one considers that the only names up there thus far are a basketball star, a front office executive and only two actual Saints' players, Ditka's chances look pretty good at this point in time.

The Saints' fan base is both forgiving and emotional. With Ditka as our field general, it won't matter so much that we win or lose so long as Iron Mike is chewing out his coaches and players. Unlike Mora, Ditka will not act as a buffer between the fans and the team. We will be able to vent our frustration vicariously through Ditka's tirades.

The fans in New Orleans will latch onto to Ditka just as they did in Chicago. The guy on the street corner will now have Da Coach on his side slamming players who don't perform. Instead of "Bless You Boys" our slogan now is "We Don't Take Crap From Nobody." Everybody will know where they stand with Iron Mike.

The fun should start early this year. We can expect that Ditka will purge the roster of players that don't fit his mold. By the time he is able to get his guys in place, we should have a squad made up of real players for a change. Ditka will lean toward attitude more so than athletic ability in selecting his players. And you can bet that the attitude he's looking for will translate into a bite and scratch team that the opposition would rather not face.

Some observers say that Ditka is at best a short term remedy for our ailing franchise. But when one considers there is a new generation of fans who are old enough to decide whether to buy a ticket, there is no better tonic than Ditka to keep the fan who has been around thirty years as well as inspire the next generation to ante up. By the way, I wonder if Benson sees the overwhelmingly positive reaction to Ditka's hire as a mandate to raise ticket prices?

February is usually the longest month for sports fans anxious for news. For us, keeping an eye on Ditka should make the weeks leading up to opening day something we can enjoy.

Until Next Time,

The Editor

Dear Saints Fan,

So, it's Ditka for Da Saints. We've been waiting so long for an announcement, it is almost hard to accept the fact that a decision has finally been made. Ditka. Iron Mike. Marquee name, high profile hire, recognition factor, don't take crap from nobody attitude, Hall of Famer, six NFC Central titles, 112 - 68 overall record and a Super Bowl victory...so why am I still unsettled about the future of the Saints? More than anything I think it is the mindset developed over the last few years that the Saints are incapable of doing much of anything right.

At this time, Ditka's chances for success are as speculative as they will ever be. We will know more as the weeks unfold. One of the first indications of Ditka's potential will be the division of power and control Benson assigns him, along with a decision on our next GM. At the moment, Kuharich's name has emerged over Jerry Vainisi. The remaining front office, scouts, coaching staff and players that ultimately surround Ditka will give us more substantial information than we have now to use as a crystal ball for the future.

For now we can be relieved that a coach has been hired .We are still waiting for the remaining pieces of the organization to fall into place, but at the very least we have a coach who will infuse some passion into the team and the fans.

Until Next Time,

The Editor